BREAKING: Tanker Explosion in Belgrade–Driver’s Names Released

UPDATE--2:15 p.m.--The drivers involved in today’s crash and fire in Belgrade Mark Tuttle, 54, of Albion who was operating a J&S Oil tractor trailer headed north on Route 27. The driver of the SUV was Robert Engdahl, 74, of Winthrop.

Troopers said Engdahl stopped at the stop sign at the intersection of Routes 8 &11 and then drove in front on the oncoming tractor trailer. Engdahl’s 2005 GMC Yukon struck the tanker truck which overturned. A fire started and both vehicles were destroyed. The truck was carrying 9,500 gallons of fuel oil.

Both drivers had minor injuries and were transported to Maine General. Engdahl has been treated and released and Tuttle also was expected to be released today.

State Police cited Engdahl for failing to yield the right of way. Route 27 reopened just after noon with a detour around the crash site, via Cemetery Road. The crash site was expected to be cleaned up by late afternoon.

ORIGINAL STORY

State Police say Route 27 has been shut down in Belgrade, near the intersection of Route 135 , following the collision of two vehicles. One of them is a tanker truck that is engulfed in flames.

According to Maine Department of Public Safety Spokesman Steve McCausland, the truck was hauling 9,500 gallons of number two fuel oil and smoke from the crash site can be seen for miles.

McCausland said the two drivers were both injured and taken to an Augusta hospital. A number of fire departments have responded to the fire and the road will be closed for the rest of the morning. Drivers need to seek alternate routes, McCausland said.